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Trial Re-enactment Scheduled At Fort Smith Historic Site

Staff and volunteers of the Fort Smith National Historic Site will present a reenactment of a historical trial based on a case heard by Judge Isaac Parker in 1892. The living-history event will be staged in the historic courtroom at 7 p.m. Friday and 6 p.m. Saturday at the historic site, 301 Parker Ave.

On Dec. 26, 1891, Thomas Symons was hunting rabbits near Wilburton, Indian Territory, when he came across a scene of absolute horror — a smoldering campfire surrounded by blood. He found more blood on nearby trees and a bloody trail that led to two bodies lying in a creek. Investigating deputy marshals found the murder weapon, a bloody axe, in the hollow of a tree.

From the scene of the crime, deputies followed the tracks of a wagon that led them to John Pointer. The trial that followed was very interesting.

Admission is $5 per person. Early reservations are required as seating is limited. Because of some of the historical facts in the case, content may not be suitable for audiences under the age of 14; parental discretion is advised.

For information about the program, call the Fort Smith National Historic Site at 783-3961.